New Bedford Remains Top Port Dollar-Wise in the Nation

Scallops continue to be king in the Port of New Bedford. The U.S. Commerce Department on Friday released its 2018 report on commercial fishing.

For the 19th consecutive year, the Port of New Bedford was the most lucrative port in the nation, with its total catch of seafood valued at $431 million. Officials say the harvesting of sea scallops continues to keep New Bedford in the top spot.

Dutch Harbor, Alaska landed the most fish for the 22nd consecutive year, more than 763 million pounds.

"America's fishermen and seafood industries underpin our strong blue economy. Our fisheries are among the world's most sustainable and support thousands of jobs, provide billions of dollars in revenue, and provide protein-rich options to dinner tables," said U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross. "Consumers can be confident that U.S. seafood represents the global gold standard in sustainability."

The highest-valued species group in 2018 was lobster, followed by crab, then salmon and scallops.

Information from the U.S. Commerce Dept.