Abstract: A method for making a hydroisomerization catalyst having improved thermal stability and metal dispersion characteristics, the catalyst prepared therefrom, and a process for making a base oil product using the catalyst are disclosed. The catalyst is prepared from a composition comprising an SSZ-91 molecular sieve and a rare earth modified alumina, with the composition being modified to contain a Group 8-10 metal, typically through impregnation of a Group 8-10 metal composition. The catalyst may be used to produce dewaxed base oil products by contacting the catalyst under hydroisomerization conditions with a hydrocarbon feedstock.