I purchased and used the OTB Abyss boots this year in Quetico, after reading Mat's reviews.  I loved them and had no problems.  It seems as though I have been on an eternal quest to find the best portaging boot and I think this might be it for now.  It is a bit concerning to hear about JD's experience, so I will probably try and do the Seamsealer thing before my next trip.  

Boots were comfortable, had good traction, and really dried out fast.  They seemed to really hold up well to the beating I usually put on shoes/boots.