As used in this title, the term "waters of this state" means all the fresh waters of this state. All ponds, lakes and waters created by or under the exclusive control of any individuals or associations, stocked and maintained at their sole expense and not runways for migratory fish shall be considered private waters, and shall be exempt from the provisions of this title respecting bag limit, season and size as far as such individuals and the members of such associations or persons receiving permits from them are concerned.
N.J.S. § 23:1-2