no i'm not familiar with EPIC. BUT place the following line on the top of your code. It will set the HS mode for you.
Code:
@ __config _HS_OSC & _WDT_OFF & _PWRTE_ON
more info on the following link. Pay attention on #1 and #5
http://www.picbasic.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?t=543

i'm over for tonight.. good night and good luck!