We like to use wireless mics. They run a little more $$ but we usually find them on eBay for $70. They have a receiver and microphone. The receiver plugs into the camera. The microphone has a 70' range so it will be nice for trailing deer.
I love the Rode VideoMic Pro. One of the reasons I like it is because you can bump the levels from -10db/0/+20db right on the mic. There are cheaper options out there if you don't want to spent. Their regular VideoMic is around $150. The Pro is around $230.