+1 on the BH1000 Octopus skimmer. I have "heard" of great results with it. I like the constuction from what I can see - and I haven't really heard any bad reviews of it. Once you get it going, it's smooth sailing. I don't think you can beat it for the price. Unless you look into a Tunze nano - which fits INSIDE your tank for $~150.
I have a Reef Octopus Diablo 160 - and I tell yah, that thing is a BEAST! I love the solid construction and the PSK600 pump is pretty powerful and quiet.
Have you ever considered that this might be a sign that you need to get yourself a sump?