A sampling device for obtaining a specimen of liquid from a remote location within a large volume or body thereof. The device includes two telescopically disposed receptacles, which form a closed container and which slideably move between closed and open positions. A rapid pull of a line connected to one receptacle will cause the receptacles to separate to the open position as a result of drag forces induced on the other receptacle, and thereby, operation at selective depths and independent of gravitational forces is possible. Furthermore, biasing elements urge the receptacles toward the closed position so that the device can be cast to the desired location and retrieved without allowing undesired liquid to enter the container or the procured sample to escape.