Fishing has been important to the economy of Maine since its settlement. In 1998, 183.9 million lb of finfish and shellfish worth $216.4 million were landed at Maine ports, ranking the state 10th and 3rd in the nation, respectively. Rockland and Portland accounted for 39 million lb and 46.5 million lb, respectively, of the state's landings in 1998. The most valuable Maine fishery product is the lobster. In 1995, Maine led in landings of American lobster for the 17th consecutive year, with 46.9 million lb, valued at $136.6 million. Flounder, halibut, scallops, and shrimp are also caught. Maine also was the leading state in soft clams, with 2.4 million lb (shelled basis) in 1998. The state sought during the late 1970s and early 1980s to conserve and restore Atlantic salmon stocks in Maine's inland waterways. In 1998, fish farms distributed over 449,000 salmon within the state for restoration or conservation. The fishing fleet had 7,561 boats and vessels in 1997. Average employment in 277 processing and wholesaling plants was 3,284 in 1997.