Arkansas Game and Fish names agency veteran as new director

Pat Fitts is the new director of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. His hiring was effective Jan. 1, according to the agency.

Fitts has been with the commission for 29 years. He served as its assistant deputy director since April and before that he was colonel of the enforcement division, according to the agency.

He began his career as a fisheries technician at the Joe Hogan State Fish Hatchery in Lonoke. Fitts has a bachelor’s degree in fish and wildlife management from Arkansas Tech University in Russellville.

“Pat’s unique skills, experience and drive make him the right person to spearhead the mission of the AGFC,” Steve Cook, commission chairman, said in the release. “His ability to interact with the public and continue to manage this agency made him a natural for this position.”

Fitts was selected following a search and selection process conducted by commissioners of the AGFC.

“I’m blessed to have spent my entire adult life serving alongside amazing people protecting our valuable natural resources,” Fitts said in the release. “It’s a humbling experience and I know there are challenges ahead. It’s just another opportunity to serve the wonderful people of Arkansas.”

His appointment was announced during a special meeting on Dec. 28.

Fitts is the agency’s 18th director in its 102-year history, according to AGFC. Fitts replaces Jeff Crow, who announced his resignation Oct. 10.