I hunt the same conditions you are describing daily during our deer season. If I wanted to carry a lever it would be either a BLR in .308 or .358. They do have a heavy trigger pull but I had the guy in PA go over both the .308 and .358 and now they are pretty sweet. Other options for a lever action include a Marlin GBL 1895 in 45-70. 18.5 inch barrel so its easy to maneuver in the thickets. Finally don't dismiss the Winchester 94 30-30. It most likely leads the pack with deer kills in thick stuff over the last 75-100 years.
Bolt actions....my choice would be one of three if you are right handed. Either a Ruger Hawkeye in 300 RCM or 338 RCM or a Winchester Compact 70 in 7mm/08 or .308.


My biggest fear is when I die my wife will sell my guns for what I told her they cost.