When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Weldcraft Marine 173 Rebel 2012 and the Weldcraft Marine 20 Angler 2013 are deep vee designs with aluminum construction — the buying decision usually comes down to a handful of practical questions: how many people are you putting on the water, how far do you trailer, and what does your tow vehicle weigh?
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Weldcraft Marine 20 Angler 2013 measures 20,6 feet overall (2013), giving it roughly 3,3 additional feet of deck space compared to the Weldcraft Marine 173 Rebel 2012 at 17,3 feet (2012). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Weldcraft Marine 20 Angler 2013 tips the scales at 1 451 lbs — 146 lbs less than the Weldcraft Marine 173 Rebel 2012 at 1 305 lbs. That difference is meaningful if you're working within a half-ton or three-quarter-ton truck's tow rating, especially once you factor in a motor, gear, and fuel.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 150 hp, the Weldcraft Marine 20 Angler 2013 has a 35-hp advantage over the Weldcraft Marine 173 Rebel 2012's 115-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Weldcraft Marine 173 Rebel 2012 carries 42 gallons versus 27 gallons in the Weldcraft Marine 20 Angler 2013. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
Both boats are rated for 5 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.
Bottom line: The Weldcraft Marine 20 Angler 2013 at 20,6 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Weldcraft Marine 173 Rebel 2012 at 17,3 ft wins on trailering ease, likely lower purchase price, and simpler docking — a solid choice for a buyer who wants more boat for less money.