A tip-up apparatus includes a base, a descending shaft hingedly coupled to the base, and a spool assembly including a top spool end and being attached to the descending shaft. The apparatus also includes a light tower and an electronic sensor coupled to the descending shaft, the electronic sensor being configured to detect movement of the spool assembly. The light tower houses at least one indicator light and is hingedly coupled to the base. The indicator light is configured to illuminate when the electronic sensor detects movement of the spool assembly.