[f. BALK v.2 + -ER1.] A man stationed on an eminence by the shore to signal to fishing-boats the direction taken by the shoals of herring or pilchards; a huer, hooer, or conder.
1602. Carew, Cornwall, 32 b. Directed in theire worke by a Balker, or Huer who standeth on the Cliffe side, and from thence, best discerneth the quantitie and course of the Pilcherd.
1603. Act 1 Jas. I., xxiii. Diuers persons … called Balcors, Huors, Condors, Directors or Guidors … have vsed to watch and attend vpon the high Hilles and Grounds neere adioyning to the Sea Coasts for the giving Notice to the Fishermen.
1754. T. Gardner, Hist. Dunwich, 163. A Conder … whereon the Balkers stood to notify, by Signals of Boughs … the Direction of the Herring Sholes.
1841. Blackw. Mag., L. 152. Let them be our quarry men, our falcons … our balkers,—‘herrings ahead, ho!’
