The Department may issue permits authorizing the establishment and operation of artificial or man-made ponds or lakes owned, leased, or controlled by an individual, if they are constructed so as not to interfere with fishing rights or natural migration of fish if the Department determines that these lakes and ponds do not conflict with any reasonable prior public interest. Fishing in these areas may be permitted for payment of a fee and they may be stocked with fish artificially propagated by commercial hatcheries or purchased from persons licensed to sell fish.