If you're going to be on Tims for any length of time go ahead and bring your boat. The water level will be down and make it easier to locate brush and docks holding fish. Tims has mostly blacknose crappie and isn't the best lake for trolling. You will be within 20 miles of Normandy lake and fifteen miles of Woods lake. Normandy is similar to Tims but smaller in size and can be very productive. Woods lends itself to trolling the river contours and flats and deep drops into trees toward the dam. It has a healthy population of white and black crappie. These make for great day trips. Each lake has unique features and are fun to fish. I hope you have a wonderful time. If I can help answer any questions, just let me know. Best of luck. Sam