You may not be using the absolute "Strongest optimal" party or choices - but from the way you've described some things you are playing with a level of meta-gaming and optimacy that goes beyond what Honour Mode was really designed to be.
What do you imagine it was designed to be?
Just to mention, sleight of hand isn't necessary. Just an rp choice on my part. I've beaten the hag more ways than I can count. I happened to use sleet storm because it's one of the few spells I chose as a white draconic sorcerer. But if I'm not using that spell then I'm using something else.
All I'm asking for is a more challenging experience using the basic game options. I think that's the whole point of tactician and honour mode. Suggesting that those modes aren't intended for players who are good at the game is... odd.
I don't think my position is unreasonable. Furthermore, I know I'm not alone in thinking that honour mode didn't go quite far enough, although most of us *really* appreciate what it does offer.