Abstract: Apparatus for taking water samples from wells, streams, lakes, or the like wherein the water sample is to be duplicative of the water that is being tested. The apparatus consists of a carrier adapted to be lowered on a line to any depth into the water body to be sampled. The carrier is hollow and has an internal load carrying cavity in which a unit consisting of an isolation vial filled with distilled water and a sample collection vial which is evacuated and positioned within the isolation vial are loaded. Both vials are equipped with closing plugs therein which contain septums and a hollow needle structure is provided which pierces the isolation vial septum and extends into but does not pierce the sample collecting septum.