An isomerization catalyst is provided, along with corresponding systems and methods, which provides improved isomerization for bio-derived feeds in reaction environments where by-products from deoxygenation are present. The catalyst provides unexpectedly increased activity and/or selectivity in situations where, for example, a deoxygenation effluent is cascaded to the isomerization catalyst. Additionally, the isomerization catalyst can assist with reducing or minimizing hydrogen consumption during isomerization. The increased activity, stability, and/or reduced hydrogen consumption is achieved in part based on using a dispersion agent when adding base metals to the catalyst. In addition to the base metals, the catalyst includes a zeolitic framework structure suitable for isomerization.